GlobalChristians.Org

This course is part of the Harvestime International
Institute, a program designed to equip believers for effective spiritual
harvest. The basic theme of the training is to teach what Jesus taught, that
which took men who were fishermen, tax collectors, etc., and changed them into
reproductive Christians who reached their world with the Gospel in a
demonstration of power.

This manual is a single course in one of several modules of curriculum which moves believers from visualizing through
deputizing, multiplying, organizing, and mobilizing to achieve the goal of
evangelizing.

You hold in your hands the key to a great treasure box.
Inside the box is gold, silver, and precious jewels. The box in which
these treasures are contained is rather unusual--not really very
appealing. It is surrounded by razor wire, electrified fences, and
armed guard towers. But inside there is great treasure . . . men and
women, precious to God, who are waiting for YOU. The manual you hold in your
hands--"You Came Unto Me"--is a training guide for jail and prison
ministry. This manual provides instruction for every level of involvement:

The minimal level of corresponding with an inmate.

Visiting one-on-one with inmates.

Ministering in group worship services, special programs, or
Bible studies inside an institution.

Assisting inmate's families.

Providing post-prison ministry upon an inmate's release from
a penal institution.

It includes instruction on dress and safety codes,
institution and inmate typology, and how to relate to inmates in such a way
that they will be attracted to the Gospel message and receive Jesus Christ as
their personal Savior.

This manual is designed to be used as a training course for:

· Individuals
who have a desire to get involved in jail and prison ministry.

· Churches
planning to start jail and prison outreaches.

· Denominations
desiring to involve their churches in such ministries.

Each chapter includes instructional objectives to guide the
learning experience and a self-test to measure individual progress.
(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in
this manual and may be removed by the instructor if they do not want students
to have access to them.) The Appendices include a dictionary of
prison-related terms, Scriptures related to prisoners, and a list of
ministry resources.

Chapter Thirteen of this manual is an individualized section
where a volunteer, church, Christian organization, or chaplain can insert
training materials unique to their specific jail or prison—items like
facility maps, rules, dress codes, forms, etc. If you are an
instructor using this manual for a Bible college class, you may insert your own
lecture notes or handouts in Chapter Thirteen.

You are free to reproduce copies of this manual for the
glory of God!

The text of the entire manual is available for downloading
from the Internet at: http://www.harvestime.org

Send $50 to Harvestime headquarters for The Prison Edition
of the Immediate Institute which has all of the courses and complete
instructions on starting a prison-based Bible school.

OBJECTIVES

Upon conclusion of this training manual you will be able to:

· Provide
references for the scriptural mandate for prison ministry.

· Explain
why believers should be involved in prison ministry.

· Articulate
the spiritual goals of jail and prison ministry.

· List the
social goals of jail and prison ministry.

· Summarize
what the Gospel has to offer prison inmates.

· Determine
your role in prison ministry.

· Summarize
the spiritual qualifications for a prison ministry worker.

Statistics say, "80% of inmates return to prison after
release--we are wasting our time to try to rehabilitate them."

But Jesus says, "I was in prison, and you came to
me."

The prison system is the only "business" that
succeeds by its failure. Prison populations grow larger and larger. Often,
people come out of prison worse than when they went in. Many commit more
crimes, return to prison, and get stuck in the cycle of recidivism, the
"revolving door" of crime, prison, and release.

The answer to this is not more prisons. It is not
locking people up and "throwing away the key." It is not even
the death penalty, as studies have shown that even this does not effectively
deter crime. The answer is the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the
demonstration of power!

Prisoners need regeneration not rehabilitation--and Jesus
has commissioned His followers to reach beyond the barbed wire fences and steel
bars to touch the lives of men and women bound by the shackles of sin.

THE MANDATE FOR PRISON MINISTRY

The mandate for prison ministry is clear in God's Word, both
by scripture and example.

SCRIPTURE: The greatest scriptural mandate for prison
ministry is given in Matthew 25:31-40. Jesus said: "When the Son of
Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on
the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and
He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from
the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on
the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, `Come, you
blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation
of the world: `for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and
you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; `I was naked and
you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to
Me.' Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, `Lord, when did we see
You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see
You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we
see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' And the King will answer
and say to them, `Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the
least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'" (Matthew
25:31-40)

EXAMPLE:

Jesus Christ Himself is our example for prison
ministry. One of the main targets of Christ's ministry was prisoners: To
open blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit
in darkness out of the prison house. (Isaiah 42:7)

Jesus declared: "The spirit of the Lord God is upon me;
because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath
sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and
the opening of the prison to them that are bound". . . (Isaiah 61:1)

Even while dying on Calvary's cross, Jesus took time to
reach out in love and concern to a prisoner. As a result, that
convicted criminal experienced God's love, grace, and forgiveness. During the
time between His death and resurrection, we are told that Jesus " . . .
went and preached to the spirits in prison" (1 Peter 3:19).

Unfortunately, despite the clear Biblical injunction and
Christ's example to minister to prisoners, many believers prefer to pass by on
the other side of the street, as did the religious leaders in the parable of
the Good Samaritan (see Luke 10:29-37).

WHY PRISON MINISTRY?

Why must believers be concerned about prison ministry?
Because. . .

1. Prison ministry has a direct Scriptural mandate (Matthew
25:31-40). Throughout the Bible are examples, descriptions, and
commandments about prisons, prisoners, bondage, captivity, and slavery.
The Bible mentions prison, prisoners, or imprisonment more than 130
times. (See Appendix Two of this manual)

2. We should follow the example Christ set by ministering to
prisoners.

3. Prisons meet the criteria of any mission field: Lost
people and a need for laborers.

4. God is not willing that any should perish--not even
serial killers, rapists, and molesters (2 Peter 3:9). God loves even the
"worst of sinners" (1 Timothy 1:15).

5. Chaplains cannot minister to more than a small percentage
of inmates in their care. They cannot do all of the necessary work themselves,
as there is just not enough time to do so.

6. Many jails and prisons have no professional chaplains and
many have no religious services at all.

7. For every person incarcerated, there are three to five
other people affected: Mates, children, parents, etc. Inmates and
their families represent a large segment of society in any culture.

8. False religions and cults are reaching out to prisoners.
We must get there first with the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

GOALS OF PRISON MINISTRY

The spiritual goals of jail and prison ministry may include
one, some, or all of the following:

· To share
the unconditional love of God.

· To present
the Gospel of Jesus Christ in such a way that inmates will embrace it and
receive Christ as Savior.

· To
disciple new believers in the Word and teach them how to study the Bible.

· To demonstrate
the power of prayer and teach them to pray.

· To lead
inmates to experience the life-changing power of God that will free them from
guilt, shame, negative emotions, and addictions.

· To
minister to inmates' families.

The social goals of jail and prison ministry are:

· To help
the inmate function more positively within the prison environment.

· To provide
a link between the community and persons confined in correctional institutions

· To prepare
residents for re-entry into society (physically, mentally, morally and
spiritually).

· To assist
inmates families in practical ways.

· To provide
post-prison assistance in practical ways.

WHAT THE GOSPEL HAS TO OFFER

The Gospel of Jesus Christ has many things to offer
inmates.

· Forgiveness
from sin.

· A chance
to say "I'm sorry."

· Release
from guilt and shame.

· Acceptance--when
all many of them have ever known is rejection.

· New values
and perspectives.

· Strategies
for coping with difficult situations and negative emotions

· Basics for
true honest relationships.

· Life
abundant through Jesus Christ.

· A new
purpose for living.

· Eternal
life.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE?

Of the millions of active believers world-wide, only a small
number are involved in ministry to prisoners, despite the fact that jails and
prisons are found in almost every community. Yet the scriptural mandate
by both teaching and example is clear. Every believer should be involved in
prison ministry. This does not necessarily mean you are called to
actually go into a prison. As in missions--not everyone is called to go
to a foreign field to share the Gospel. But--as in missions--every
believer should be involved in prison ministry in some capacity.

Those who minister with inmates must be sure of their
relationship with Christ, set a proper example, and always be ready to
give an answer for the hope within them. While a person called to this
ministry should demonstrate all the spiritual virtues taught in the Word, this
chapter emphasizes the essential qualifications prison workers should possess:

SPIRITUAL QUALIFICATIONS

COURAGE:

Entering a jail or prison to minister--whether on a
one-to-one or group basis--is outside the "comfort zone" for most
believers. It is not unusual to feel a bit uneasy the first few times you
are in a penal facility---but remember, God will take care of you whenever you
are in His service. In most cases, the prison chapel is a safe place and
inmates are open and friendly. If you feel apprehensive, remember that
God does not give a spirit of fear--so recognize where fear comes from and
conquer it in the name of Jesus!

COOPERATION:

There are many different persons in a prison society.
As a volunteer--in addition to the inmates-- you will primarily be involved
with correctional officers (also called guards) and a chaplain or
supervisor. Most people you meet will probably treat you with courtesy
and respect. Be sure to treat them courteously, speaking to them and shaking
hands with them where appropriate, using their names when reasonably possible.
A good prison worker knows how to cooperate with others--administration, other
volunteers, and especially the chaplain, if the jail or prison has one.
It is important for you, as a volunteer, to have some understanding of
the work of jail and prison chaplains. Chaplains work long hours under
difficult conditions. Each day chaplains must deal with many responsibilities
such as the personal crises of inmates, providing programs to meet the
spiritual needs of inmates, and fighting the frustrations and
disappointments which are an integral part of prison chaplaincy.

Most full-time prison and jail chaplains have more training
and preparation for their work than do many ministers. Before they can be
accepted into many prisons they must have seminary training and be endorsed by
their denominations. Often they are required to have served in a
pastorate before coming into chaplaincy. Chaplains must also be
acceptable to the warden of the prison in which he/she is to work.

A chaplain functions as the administrator of a religious
program for the entire institution.

It is important for volunteers to maintain good
relationships with the chaplain. It is a grave breach of trust to use your
access to the prison to undermine the chaplain's reputation or to discredit his
programs. If there is a problem, always talk with the chaplain first.

GENUINENESS: Be real! Inmates are adept at identifying
phonies. A person should not visit the prison with an improper motive
like seeking a spouse or showing off his/her abilities. Prisoners are extremely
perceptive. They can quickly spot the person who joined the team out of
curiosity. Selfish motives and "holier-than-thou" attitudes have no
place in this ministry.

HUMILITY: Maintain a humble spirit. Remember--you are
there to serve. Always be in subjection to those in authority (the
chaplain, guards, warden).

FORGIVING: Foster a forgiving spirit, recognizing that but
for the grace of God, you could be in a similar situation. Realize that
God's forgiveness extends to what society calls "psychopaths" and the
"vilest of individuals."

PERSEVERANCE: Society, friends, and family have given up on
many inmates. They don't need someone else to reject them. Be
patient. God has promised you will reap spiritual fruit in due season.
Volunteers who start and then quit demoralize the inmate, disappoint the
chaplain and the prison staff, and give a bad image to the efforts of the
church.

FAITHFULNESS: Be faithful, constant, and trustworthy in the
performance of your duties, especially in keeping promises and being on time
for appointments or services. The prison chaplain depends on you, as do
the inmates. A visit that may just be another in a long list of things
you have to do can be the highlight of an inmate's week. Don't
disappoint them. Be faithful to this great privilege with which God has
entrusted you. Commitment to be consistent and dependable is a top
ranking quality valued by chaplains who work with volunteers.

EMPATHY: Empathy is the ability to feel with people as
though you were in their place. In the Old Testament, the Prophet Ezekiel
sat with the captives by the River Chebar before he shared God's message to
them. They were ready to listen, because they knew he understood. He had
"sat where they sat" (Ezekiel 1:1).

SENSE OF MISSION: A sense of mission is a desire and
determination to give this work priority (at the times designated for it), a
belief that this is what you would rather be doing (at that time) than anything
else in the world!

SPIRITUAL GROWTH: You must not only lead inmates to new
spiritual growth, but likewise you must be willing and anxious to grow.
Spiritual growth is a lifelong process. If you ever feel that you have
"arrived" in either knowledge or virtue, you are simply showing how
immature you really are.

EMOTIONAL MATURITY: It is important that you can handle your
own emotions: Anger, depression, up one day and down the next. Prison is
a depressing place and inmates don't need more gloom and doom.

LOVE: Study 1 Corinthians 13. The greatest
motivating force behind any ministry--and especially prison ministry--is
love. Love for God. Unconditional love for the inmate. Love
for the mission to which God has called you.

PREPARATION: There are four vital areas of preparation for
those who desire to be effective prison workers.

1. PREPARE IN PRAYER:

As in every ministry, effective prison ministry is fueled by
prayer. Here are some specific prayer targets:

· The
chaplain of the institution.

· Individual
inmates.

· Families
of inmates.

· The warden
and administrative staff.

· Correction
officers.

· Safety for
prison volunteers entering the institution.

· Parolees:
For their spiritual and practical needs--jobs, housing.

· Revelation
knowledge to meet the needs of inmates.

· Spiritual
revival.

· For God to
raise up strong spiritual leaders within the prison church body.

· Inmate
prayer requests: Many prison chapels have a prayer request box.
Inmates write out their requests and put them in the box for the chaplain and
volunteers to pray specifically for their concerns.

2. PREPARE IN THE WORD:

The prison volunteer should have a good working knowledge of
the Bible and basic Christianity. Most inmates are not interested in the finer
points of theology, but they do need a clear, understandable presentation
of the gospel. If you do not study and understand the Word, how can you
help someone else learn to study and understand it? To be an effective
prison worker, you must continually be studying God's Word.

3. PREPARE FOR YOUR SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITY:

Prepare for your specific responsibility in ministry.
If you are to sing, have your sound track cued and ready. If you are to teach,
spend adequate time preparing your lesson. If you are using video or
audio equipment or an overhead projector, have these items ready.

4. PREPARE FOR THE SPECIFIC INSTITUTION:

Prepare yourself for the specific institutional setting you
will enter:

· Know the
rules for dress and conduct of the specific institution. These vary from
institution to institution.

· Know the
chain of command--who you are responsible to as a volunteer.

· Know what
you are allowed to take into the institution with you.

· Get a
general understanding of the ways in which acceptable Christian ministries can
be carried out within that system.

· Attend
training and orientation classes offered by the institution or chaplain.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER TWO

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. Summarize the spiritual qualifications for a prison
ministry worker which were discussed in this chapter.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter of this manual.)

CHAPTER THREE: Starting A Prison Ministry

KEY VERSE: But this is a people robbed and plundered; all of
them are snared in holes, and they are hidden in prison houses; they are for
prey, and no one delivers; for plunder, and no one says,
"Restore!" (Isaiah 42:22)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Summarize
the steps for starting a prison ministry.

· Identify
various types of ministries which you might provide in an institution.

· Prepare
and submit a proposal for prison ministry.

· Recruit
and train volunteers.

INTRODUCTION

You are convinced. The Biblical mandate and example
are clear. As a believer, you want to be involved in prison
ministry. But how do you start? How do you gain access to the
prison? This chapter details steps for starting a jail or prison
ministry. You will learn various types of ministries which you might
provide in an institution, how to prepare and submit a proposal for your program,
and ways to recruit and train volunteers.

STARTING A JAIL OR PRISON MINISTRY

Here are seven steps to guide you through the process of
starting a jail or prison ministry.

STEP ONE: Pray. All things are fueled by prayer. Pray
about what God wants for the specific institution and your individual role in
it. Lay a foundation of prayer before you begin your ministry.

STEP TWO: Consult your spiritual leader. If you are a
pastor, consult with your board. If you are a church member, talk with
your pastor. This is important for several reasons:

· It is
common courtesy.

· Spiritual
leaders can guide and provide valuable input to you.

· Your
spiritual leader may already have plans underway for such a ministry.

· If so, be
part of it, don't undermine it.

Try to gain the interest and support of your pastor or
spiritual leader. This support is vital to obtaining volunteers to staff
the program. The key will be in showing your pastor how this ministry
works cooperatively with other programs, ministries, and services of the
church. Share how this scripturally mandated outreach advances the
Gospel by putting church members to work both inside and outside institutions.

STEP THREE: Do an analysis. Here are some questions to
answer in your analysis:

What jails and prisons are in your immediate area?

Is there a local ministerial association? What are
they doing, if anything? Are they interested in jail and prison
ministry? (If they already have a program and have gained access to local
institutions, perhaps you can be part of it.)

Who is in charge of volunteers at the institution?
Contact them and find out:

· How do you
get cleared for ministry inside the institution.

· Are there
forms you need to fill out?

· Is there
special training you must take?

· What
identification do you need for clearance?

· What needs
exist in their institution?

· What needs
can you and/or your church fill? Try not to duplicate efforts of other
Christian organizations. We should complement, not compete with one
another.

· Familiarize
yourself with all the rehabilitation programs offered in local institutions
where you wish to serve, as well as the population breakdown (races,
religions, ages, sex, etc.) and, if possible, the philosophy of the respective
administrations. Gain as much knowledge as you can about the
institution before requesting permission to provide services and/or
programs. If you know administrators, officers, or former inmates, talk
to them about the needs and conditions.

Possible activities and services you can provide an
institution include:

· Conducting
regular church services.

· Substituting
for the chaplain when he is ill or on vacation.

· Providing
special musical or dramatic programs.

· Conducting
Bible studies.

· Teaching
classes in a specific skill, trade, or in personal adjustment.

· Conducting
a Christian group for those with addictions.

· Distributing
literature and Bibles.

· Hosting a
Christian film night.

Providing individualized services in addition to your group
program:

· Providing
Bible correspondence courses.

· Matching
inmates with Christian visitors.

· Matching
inmates with Christians to write to them.

· Providing
referral information for families of prisoners.

· Referring
inmates to post-prison release programs.

Note: Before writing this portion of the ministry proposal,
you may want to study Chapters Four-Nine of this manual which address various
individual and group ministries in which you may desire to become involved.

STEP FOUR: Prepare a program proposal. A proposal will . . .

· Define
purpose, objectives, and practical aspects of your program.

· Be
submitted for approval to the institution where you plan to minister.

· Be used as
a tool for volunteer recruitment. (You must know what type of ministry
you will be conducting in order to recruit qualified volunteers.)

Your proposal should consider things like. . .

· Goals:
What is the purpose of your program? What do you want to
accomplish? See Chapter One of this manual for a list of possible
goals. Be sure to include your own specific goals also.

· Benefits:
How will your program benefit inmates? How will it benefit the
institution?

· Specifics:
Define the specific ministry? Will it be a group ministry? To individual
inmates? Their Families? A post-prison ministry?

· Director:
Who will head your program? What are his/her qualifications and
experience?

· Volunteers:
Who will participate in your program? What training will they receive?
(We suggest using this manual in your training program. That is the purpose for
which it was created.)

· Facilities:
What type of facility will you need at the institution? Do you need to
use the prison chapel? A day room? A classroom? A visiting
area?

· Days,
time: Days and times you would like to meet.

· Equipment:
Will you need items like an overhead projector, video projector, musical
instruments, song books, musical sound tracks? Are these items provided
by the institution or will you need to provide them? Will the institution
allow you to bring them into the facility? If you plan to prepare
handouts for inmates, do you have access to a copy machine?

· Funding:
Although most group prison ministries are operated by volunteers, there may be
financial costs incurred--for instance, if you plan on distributing Bibles,
books, tracks, or other handouts approved by the institution.

The institution in which you plan to minister may have a
special form or format to follow inpreparing your proposal. Inquire
concerning this. Following is a sample proposal form used by one prison
in the United States:

Here is a sample letter format used for a proposal to an
institution:

If you have already successfully conducted prison ministries
elsewhere, attach letters of recommendation and/or commendation from jail or
prison officials at the institutions where you ministered. If you have received
requests from inmates in the institution for the specific program you are
offering, attach these to your proposal.

STEP FIVE: Submit your proposal. Submit a copy
of your proposal to your pastor or spiritual leader for review, then submit a
copy to the chaplain or proper authorities at the prison and wait for their
response. They may call you in to meet with them to discuss the
proposal. If so, be on time, appropriately dressed, and properly prepared
for your appointment. If you do not receive a response to the proposal
after a reasonable length of time, take the initiative to call and schedule an
appointment yourself with the person to whom it was submitted.

If your request to provide services is denied, try again in
a couple of months. This could very well be a test of your commitment,
dedication, and patience. Administrators and chaplains also quit, retire,
or transfer and someone else may be more favorable to your program.

Note: At present, in the United States it is the
responsibility of the institution's administrator to ensure that all residents
are able to exercise their constitutional right to practice their religious
beliefs. The only way this right can be denied is that substantial
justification can be shown to limit or regulate it, (for example, a security
breach).

STEP SIX: Secure and train volunteers. After approval of the
prison ministry by your pastor and the institution in which you plan to
minister, you need to secure volunteers to conduct the program. A
volunteer is important. . .

· To the
inmate, as a link to the outside world, a friend, and a model of mature
Christian life.

· To
families of inmates, in providing information and practical and spiritual help
as they cope with their dilemma.

· To the
chaplain, by assisting and supporting his programs.

· To the
prison administration, as an additional resource for helping with
rehabilitation and transition back into society. The volunteer can
provide services the institution cannot provide because of limited staffing and
budget.

· To other
volunteers, as a source of encouragement, training, and example to follow.

· To the
local church, as a channel of communication, increasing awareness of the need
for jail and prison ministries.

· To
himself, as this ministry provides an opportunity for using his spiritual gifts
and putting his faith into action.

There are many ways to obtain volunteers:

· Put a
notice in church bulletins.

· Make
announcement in church services.

· Recruit at
small group meetings.

· Prepare
posters and place them in strategic locations in the church.

· Plan a
"Prison Ministry Day" in the church or churches you plan to involve
in the ministry. Have a speaker who is actively involved in prison
ministry and include testimonies from former prisoners. Outline the
program you plan and announce a meeting (date, time, place) for those who are
interested in participating. (In addition to recruiting volunteers, the
"Prison Ministry Day" will prepare churches to receive former prisoners
into their fellowship.)

In screening volunteers, consider the following:

· Has the
person had prior prison ministry experience?

· Does the
person have any musical talent?

· What
languages do they speak?

· Do they
have the ability to lead a small group?

· Have they
had any personal witnessing experience?

· What is
their spiritual gift? Teaching and counseling are two important gifts for
jail and prison ministry.

· Are they
an ex-offender? If so, check to be sure they will be allowed access to the
prison.

Determine where their interest lies and where they will be
most effective:

· Writing an
inmate?

· Visiting
an inmate?

· Ministry
to inmate's families?

· Group
ministry inside the prison?

· Post-prison
ministry?

You may want to have each potential volunteer complete a
form at the first meeting. Use the following form or make your own
adaptation of it:

Note: If women are allowed on the volunteer team for a
men's institution, it is important to remember that the highest standards of
conduct and dress should be insisted upon. The same is true for men ministering
in women's prisons. When possible, have husband and wife teams. These
teams not only prevent difficult situations arising, they add the extra
dimension of modeling good husband-wife relationships.

After you secure your volunteers, train them:

· Review
your prison ministry proposal with them.

· Discuss
where they would fit best in the program.

· Use this
manual to train them for jail and prison ministry.

· Arrange
for some orientation to the institution as a first step in developing interest
and eliminating those who feel uncomfortable with this type of ministry.

· Be sure to
obtain proper clearances to enter the institution for volunteers.

· Have your
volunteers complete any training required by the chaplain or the administration
of the institution in which you will be ministering.

STEP SEVEN: Plan your first meeting or outreach.
Be sure volunteers are well trained. Be sure everyone is dressed properly for
visitation or group outreach at the prison. Check that everyone has the proper
identification for entering the facility.

There are many different ways a service or group meeting
inside the prison can be run. If you discover an effective format, don't
hesitate to make it the backbone of your ministry--but don't be afraid to try
new ideas and fresh approaches from time to time. See Chapter Six of this
manual for guidelines for conducting prison services.

Be certain everyone clearly understands their individual
role in the ministry: What to do, when, and any time constraints involved.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER THREE

1. Write the key verse from memory:

2. Summarize the steps for starting a prison ministry
discussed in this chapter.

3. What are some various types of ministries which you might
provide in an institution?

4. What are some ways to recruit volunteers?

5. What were some suggestions given in this chapter for
training volunteers?

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter of this manual.)

CHAPTER FOUR: Corresponding With Inmates

KEY VERSE: These things I have written to you who believe in
the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and
that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. (1 John
5:13)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Explain
how to get started corresponding with an inmate.

· Summarize
guidelines for corresponding with inmates.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter is for those who wish to be involved in a
correspondence ministry with jail or prison inmates. It explains how to
get started and presents guidelines for safe and effective correspondence.

HOW TO GET STARTED

First, contact the proper authorities at the institution.
Some prisons provide programs that match inmates to "friends outside"
for corresponding and/or visits. If the prison does not have such a program,
contact the chaplain for names of those who need someone to write to them.

Second, obtain a list of the rules for corresponding with
inmates at that specific prison. Most institutions have
established, written rules that govern correspondence. These differ from
institution to institution. Some prisons permit you to send stamps and
stationary through the mail, soft cover books, Gospel tracts, Bibles, and
cassette tapes. Other institutions have specific procedures for sending such
materials, i.e., the book must come directly from the publisher. Some
institutions do not permit inmates to receive any of these items through the
mail.

GUIDELINES FOR CORRESPONDING

Here are some guidelines to help you correspond effectively
with inmates.

1. Keep in mind as you write to prisoners that many of them
feel suspicious, resentful, and lonely.

They are suspicious, because they have been abused or taken
advantage of in past relationships. They may question your motive for writing:
"What are you getting out of doing this?" Work at developing mutual
trust, respect and understanding. Inmates are often resentful because they have
been rejected by society, and after all, you too are a member of that society.
Give inmates unconditional love and understanding.

Inmates feel lonely because they are alienated from society,
friends, and family. Many have been rejected by the latter. A week
without a letter can seem like a year, so write often and respond promptly. One
prisoner is reported to have called mail "paper sunshine."

2. Pray that God will help you to properly understand each
letter and direct you with the proper response. (See Chapter Twelve on
"Relating To Inmates").

3. If possible, it is best not to use your home address when
answering letters. Use a post office box or your church or ministry address.
This will avoid possible future problems, i.e., another inmate getting your
home address, a parolee showing up unexpectedly on your door step, etc.

4. Make it clear from the beginning that you are not looking
for romantic involvement. It is easy for prisoners to become infatuated, even
if they have never seen you, because of their loneliness. Kindness from you can
be misinterpreted by them. If this happens, you should straighten it out in
your very next letter or visit. Be courteous and tactful, but firm in this
area. Some ministries restrict pen-pals to the same sex.

5. Do not share anything about yourself that can be used
against you later, for any reason.

6. Do not send money unless you have really prayed about it
and know God is directing you to do so. If you do send money, never loan it.
Send it as an outright gift, but make it clear not to expect future gifts. Be
sure to clear the gift through proper channels at the institution.

7. Do not promise help with employment, housing, etc., after
release from prison unless the ministry with which you are involved is
adequately prepared to give it. Your purpose in writing is to be a source
of encouragement in the Lord. Any request for social services should be
channeled to proper post-prison release ministries.

8. Do not be too "preachy" in your letters.
Establish relationship first, then it is easy to share regarding spiritual
matters. Share incidents from your everyday life that make the inmate
feel part of your life and family.

9. Include in your letter anything you are permitted to send
such as. . .

· Photos.

· Interesting
news clippings.

· Crossword
or word search puzzles.

· Picture
post cards.

· A gift of
stamps or stationery, from time to time, if the institution permits.

· Funny
cartoons.

· Paper book
marks.

· Bible
studies or correspondence lessons.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER FOUR

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. What are important things to do when you want to get
started corresponding with an inmate?

3. Summarize the guidelines for corresponding with inmates
discussed in this chapter.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter of this manual.)

CHAPTER FIVE: Visiting Inmates

KEY VERSE: Remember the prisoners as if chained with
them--those who are mistreated-- since you yourselves are in the body
also. (Hebrews 13:3)

OBJECTIVES:

· Explain
why personal visitation is an important ministry.

· Explain
how to get involved in one-on-one visitation with inmates.

· Summarize
guidelines for visiting individually with an inmate.

INTRODUCTION

Many inmates in jails and prisons have no one to visit them:

· Their
family may live a great distance from where they are incarcerated or do not
have the necessary transportation/finances to visit.

· Their
family may have rejected them or they may have no family.

· Former
friends may have rejected them.

· Personal
visits with an inmate is one of the most rewarding areas of jail and prison
ministry. This chapter explains its importance, details how to get involved,
and offers guidelines for visiting individually with inmates.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PERSONAL VISITATION

Visiting an inmate on a one-on-one basis is an important
ministry for the following reasons:

· Every soul
is valuable to God: "The Lord is not willing that any should perish"
(2 Peter 3:9). Jesus ministered to multitudes, but He always had time for the
individual (for an example, see John 4).

· Many
inmates will not attend religious services. Perhaps they have been "turned
off" to the church by negative experiences. They may also be afraid going
to prison services will be interpreted as weakness by other inmates and make
them vulnerable.

· Many
inmates have never experienced true, Godly, unconditional friendship. They have
only known abusive or impure relationships.

· As for
most of us--it is easier to open up in a personal rather than group setting.
You can discuss many issues in a one-on-one visit that you cannot discuss in a
group setting. The inmate can share personal needs with you, you can pray and
study the Word together, and forge an intimate spiritual bond.

· You become
a bridge back into society for the inmate. They will have a friend waiting when
they are released from prison.

· One can't
have too many friends. You will not only be a blessing, but you will be blessed
by a true friendship with an inmate.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Here are some guidelines for how to get involved in
one-on-one visitation with inmates.

· Inquire
about the visitation program at the jail or prison where you want to volunteer.
Many have an organized program for matching inmates with volunteers who want to
visit one-on-one.

· If the
institution does not have an organized program for matching inmates and
visitors, ask the chaplain to match you with an inmate. If there is no
chaplain, consult the administrator in charge of visiting and ask for a match.

· People who
are ministering inside the prison on a group basis in religious programs are
also a good source. They often know of inmates who have no one to visit them or
who would benefit from personal attention.

· If
possible, exchange a few letters with the inmate prior to your first visit. You
will already feel like friends when you meet for the first time.

VISITATION GUIDELINES

Here are some visitation guidelines:

· Go through
proper channels to be approved by the institution as a visitor. You may
have to fill out certain forms, be pre-approved before your first visit, carry
a specific type of identification, etc.

· Learn and
abide by all rules for personal visitation in the institution where you are to
visit. Rules may include issues like days and hours for visitation,
appropriate dress, safety, and dress codes. They usually govern what can
and cannot be taken into the institution with you. Many jails and
prisons have their rules in writing. Ask for them. (For general
guidelines, see Chapter Eleven of this manual on "Dress and Safety
Codes.")

· It is best
to visit one-on-one with a person of your same sex. This avoids the
pitfalls of improper romantic relationships.

· Normally,
it is best not to give money to an inmate or their family. If you believe
there is a legitimate need and you really believe God is directing you to do
this, it is best to channel your help anonymously through the chaplain or
another contact in the institution.

· If you
forge a real friendship with an inmate it will be easier to discuss spiritual
matters and share the Gospel with them.

· Don't
preach or lecture. Ask God to show you how to share His love and the Word
of God in a way that will be accepted. After an inmate becomes a
believer, continue to disciple him in the Word of God.

· If the
institution permits, give a Bible and discipleship literature to your friend.
Depending on institutional rules, you may be allowed to send these items through
the mail, take them in yourself, or give materials to the chaplain to deliver.

· Unless you
have had training or you are gifted by God in the area of personal counseling,
don't assume this role in the relationship. You are there as a
friend. Don't feel you must give an answer to every issue raised.

· As in any
friendship, be a good confidant. Keep personal information shared by your
special friend confidential.

· Prison is
a very impersonal, dehumanizing place and an inmate doesn't have much
opportunity to receive individual attention. Make your friend
feel special. Make your visits a positive, uplifting, fun time.

· Always
remember you are there as a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ—but
don't spend all your time on spiritual matters. Foster a balanced
relationship just as you do with your own personal friends. Discuss
current events, laugh together, have fun with your friend!

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER FIVE

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. Why is personal visitation an important ministry?

3. List ways to get involved in one-on-one visitation with
inmates.

4. Summarize the guidelines given in this chapter for
visiting individually with an inmate.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual.)

CHAPTER SIX: Conducting Group Meetings

KEY VERSE: But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with
compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having
no shepherd. (Matthew 9:36)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Identify
various types of group meetings that can be conducted in jails and prisons.

· Summarize
guidelines for conducting group meetings.

INTRODUCTION

Many jails and prisons offer opportunities for group
ministries to inmates. This chapter identifies various types of group
ministries and suggested guidelines for conducting the groups.

TYPES OF GROUP MEETINGS

There are many types of Christian group meetings to conduct
in a prison:

· Worship
services

· Bible
studies

· Music
classes (to train vocalists, musicians, or a choir for the prison worship
services)

Remember to follow the guidelines given in Chapter Three of
this manual for preparing and submitting your proposal to the institution.

CONDUCTING GROUP MEETINGS

Here are some general guidelines for conducting group
services in a jail or prison.

TIMING: Correctional institutions are run on a strict
schedule. All group meetings should begin and end on time.

MUSIC: Music for worship services in prison should be
encouraging and uplifting. Songs that could be misunderstood by residents as
condemning or as "put down" should not be used, e.g., "Rescue
the Perishing." Neither should depressing music like "Nobody
Knows The Trouble I've Seen." If you are using overheads
transparencies, song books, or sound tracks, have these items ready. Always
receive clearance from the chaplain before arranging musical activities which
are different from that which your team normally does (special groups,
cantatas, etc.)

PRAYER: Here are some suggestions for prayer time:

Keep prayers short and to the point unless the Holy Spirit
moves in a special way. A lengthy prayer could not only make the worship
tedious but could be misunderstood by the prisoners as saying, "These
people need long prayers."

No particular position or posture is important, but when
there is a large crowd (50 or more), it would be advisable to leave the
congregation seated or standing while offering prayer rather than calling them
forward to kneel. (This is for control purposes.)

Spend most of the time praying for the physical, social,
mental and spiritual welfare of inmates--their concerns and those relating to their
families. Pray also for institutional staff.

It is okay to keep your eyes open a bit (or have a member of
your team designated to keep their eyes open) for control purposes.

SCRIPTURE READING: The person reading the Scripture, during
a worship service, is "echoing" the voice of God and setting the tone
for the sermon or lesson. Have the text read with expression, reverence
and impressiveness (see Nehemiah 8:8). Announce clearly, before beginning
to read, where the Scripture is located (book, chapter and verses). Allow time
for those who have Bibles to find the passage. Project your voice to
those in the back of the room. Stand erect and speak clearly. Read God's Word
so impressively that the prisoners' emotions will be stirred and their hearts
turned heavenward.

TESTIMONIES: If you are asked to give a testimony, do not
view this as your golden opportunity to preach. Do not use denominational
jargon such as, "Since I came into the message" or "After I
accepted the truth." It is better to use such phrases as "Since I
became a Christian" or "After I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal
Savior."

Keep your testimony Christ-centered and follow the ABC's of
testifying:

A. Always tell what Christ has done for you and/or your
family, telling things that are relevant to strengthening the faith of the
prisoners. Don't glamorize sin by telling explicit details.

B. Be sure to keep it as short as possible, preferably 2-3
minutes. Don't try to tell it all. Remember that you are working in a scheduled
time frame. The more you talk, the less time the speaker will have to deliver
the Word.

C. Check your volume. Speak clearly and loudly, especially
if no microphone is available, so you are heard and understood by all.

PREACHING OR TEACHING: Messages prepared for preaching or
teaching in a prison should not exceed 30 minutes (unless, of course, the Holy
Spirit is moving in some dramatic way). Many inmates have limited
attention span. You also want to leave time enough at the end of your
message so that you can conclude things properly and visit awhile with the
residents (the fellowship is important to them). Make your messages relevant to
inmates. Adjust your presentation to what you know about your audience.
Character building and encouragement messages are always good. When
making a point about wrongdoing, always use "we" to include
yourself.

The following things should never be done in a message:

Never scold the residents. Enough of this has been received
from relatives, lawyers, judges, etc.

Never make statements that can be misinterpreted by prison
staff as a breach of security.

Never downgrade other religions.

Never present a "holier than thou" attitude.

Never ask antagonistic questions or assume the group
disagrees with you.

In small groups, wherever possible, use the circle seating
arrangement.

In small groups, encourage class participation. The
question and answer method is effective. Don't let one person dominate the
conversation.

Make sure everyone has a Bible and encourage them to read
along.

If you have to eject a disruptive student from a group, be
tactful and courteous, but be firm. If necessary, get the cooperation of a
correctional officer.

RESPONSE: If you ask for response from the group at the end
of a message--to accept Christ as Savior or rededicate their lives--be very
clear about exactly what you want them to do and why. If you have a large
group, it is best to have them raise their hands rather than come forward
(security precautions).

INMATE PARTICIPATION : Encourage inmates to be part of the
service. For example, have an inmate sing a solo or share his testimony.
Exercise caution with regard to the content and length of inmate participation.
Keep in mind that you are working within a set time frame and you can allow
only a minimum amount of resident participation at each service. If necessary,
have a "waiting list." Be sure to screen solos inmates want to
sing, as some who are new believers may not pick appropriate music.
Always maintain control. Do not let any inmate take control of the group
meeting. In small group meetings--especially Christian groups
dealing with addictions--provide opportunity for all inmates to participate and
share. You may be jarred by one inmate verbally attacking another in such
sessions. Intervene by directing the group back to issues rather than
dealing in personalities.

FOLLOW-UP: Inmates who indicate their acceptance of Jesus
Christ as their personal Savior during an appeal at the close of a group
meeting--or at any other time--should receive follow up care while still in the
institution. If possible, their names should be secured and one copy given to
the chaplain and another retained for you to follow up. Encourage them to
attend Bible study sessions, Sunday services, and other opportunities offered
in the institution.

If the institution provides a way for them to be baptized in
water, they should receive instruction on this and opportunity to do so.
(One prison has a horse watering trough which the chaplain fills with water for
baptismal services.)

New converts will be like young children taking their first
spiritual steps. Most of the time, their environment will be alien and opposed
to their new beliefs. Constant support, encouragement and prayer is needed.
They should:

Be kept as spiritually active as possible by participating
in worship services, Bible studies, and other Christian activities.

Be given some responsibility in the ministry as soon as they
are ready to accept it. Many are quite talented and their appropriate talents
should be utilized for God's service. A study of spiritual gifts will
help them identify and begin to flow in the gifts God has given to them.

Be encouraged to continue regular attendance at worship
services and Bible study sessions.

Be encouraged to develop friendships with other Christians
within and without the institution. You may want to assign a
"spiritual buddy" to each new convert. This person will visit and/or
write the resident regularly, as well as keep in touch after his/her
release from prison. If the prisoner with whom you are working is
transferred to another institution, the "spiritual buddy" can continue
to write and provide encouragement and spiritual guidance.
(Caution: Be sure the "spiritual buddy" is the same sex as the
convert.)

ENTERING AND EXITING THE ROOM: It is important--especially
in large groups--to have established procedures for entering and exiting the
room to keep things orderly. Some institutions require inmates to sign in
so there is a record of their participation. Assign some inmates to
remain behind and put the room back in order: Erase boards, secure equipment,
put up materials, pick up trash, and straighten chairs and tables.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER SIX

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. List various types of group meetings that can be
conducted in jails and prisons.

3. Summarize guidelines given in this chapter for each of
the following areas:

Timing:

Music:

Prayer:

Scripture reading:

Testimonies:

Preaching or teaching:

Response:

Inmate participation:

Follow up:

Entering and exiting the room:

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter of this manual.)

CHAPTER SEVEN: Ministering To Inmate's Families

KEY VERSE: “And in you all the families of the earth shall
be blessed." (Genesis 12:3)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Explain
why inmate's families are often in crisis.

· Identify
ways in which you can minister to inmate's families.

· Summarize
guidelines for ministering to inmate's families.

INTRODUCTION

Thousands of families are directly affected each year by
having one of their loved ones in a prison or jail. Most of these
families are broken and filled with loneliness, anxiety, and feelings of
rejection. Few of these families receive adequate attention from the
church. God told Abraham that through him, "all the families of the
earth shall be blessed." As spiritual heirs of Abraham, we too can
bless families. This chapter explores ways you and/or your church can be
involved in ministering to the families of inmates.

UNDERSTANDING THE CRISIS

When a family member is arrested, it usually creates great
anxiety, fear, and uncertainty for their mate, children, or parents.
Imprisonment brings a double crisis to a family. The first crisis is that
one of the family members has been arrested for breaking some law. The second
crisis is that the family is split apart. Losing a family member to
imprisonment is similar to the person dying. Children face shame and loss when
a parent is in prison. They may be displaced, having to live with
relatives, friends, foster homes, or in institutions. Many do not get to
visit the incarcerated parent--perhaps because of court orders, distance from
the prison, or the financial situation of those keeping them which prohibits
visiting (costs for transportation, food, housing).

HOW TO HELP INMATE'S FAMILIES

Here are some practical ways to minister to inmate's
families:

· Transportation
and hospitality: Provide transportation to and from the institution so the
family can visit. If you live near a prison, provide a place for the family to
stay overnight while visiting. Studies have shown that a family that stays
together and keeps in touch with the member in prison have an important
influence in helping that member readjust to society upon release.

· Information:
The family may not know how to get information--things like trial dates,
when and how to visit, or how to obtain legal representation. You can be
a help if you familiarize yourself with the system.

· Social
services: Share information on public and private agencies whose function
is to provide employment, legal aid, housing, financial assistance, counseling,
education, etc. The family may also need assistance in applying for these
programs.

· Employment:
If the wage earner is incarcerated, the mate may need to find employment.
Housing, food, clothing, and finances: The family may need temporary or
permanent housing, food, or finances to help get them on their feet. If you or
your church provides financial help, checks should be used--if possible--and
made out for the bills involved, directly to the landlord, utility companies,
etc.

· Counseling:
The entire family or individual family members may need personal counseling in
order to deal with the crisis.

· Presents
on special occasions: Christmas and birthdays are difficult for children
and their incarcerated parent(s). One way you can help is to purchase gifts for
Christmas and birthdays, wrap them, and present them to the child from the
incarcerated parent. This cheers both inmate and child!

· A church
home: The most important thing you can do for an inmate's family is to provide
a loving, supportive, accepting church home.

HOW TO CONTACT AN INMATE'S FAMILY

There are two important things you must do before contacting
an inmate's family:

· Check with
the chaplain or administration at the jail or prison where you are ministering.
See if there are rules against this or an established procedure you should
follow.

· Obtain
written permission from the inmate so the family and institution knows you have
his/her approval. The request also clarifies the purpose for your contact. You
may use and/or adapt the following form.

· A friendly
telephone call or brief visit should initiate this ministry. At the culmination
of the visit or call, offer a brief prayer. On the next visit, bring a copy of
the same literature that the inmate is using for adult family members so they
can progress spiritually together. If they are not interested in the
literature, then continue visiting on a strictly friendly and supportive basis.
Always try to channel the conversation towards the present conditions of the
home, family, employment, and plans for the future. Discourage attempts to
dwell on negative aspects of the past. On subsequent visits, the family may
share personal problems with you. If a basic need is obvious, tactfully inquire
if you may be of assistance in filling it.

Note: Husband and wife teams are ideal visitors.
Men should never visit an inmate's wife alone, nor should a woman visit an inmate's
husband alone. When you are working with an inmate's family, keep all
personal matters confidential. Share only that which you have
received specific permission from the incarcerated family member to reveal.
Never get involved in legal matters or mention alleged problems between the
prisoner and his/her family.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER SEVEN

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. Why is an inmate's family often in crisis?

3. What are some ways in which you can minister to inmate's
families?

4. What are two important things you must do before
contacting an inmate's family?

5. Summarize guidelines given in this chapter for
ministering to inmate's families.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual.)

CHAPTER EIGHT: Ministering To Death Row Inmates

KEY VERSE: Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee;
according to the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are appointed
to die. (Psalms 79:11)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Explain
how to start a ministry to death row inmates.

· Discuss
guidelines for ministering to death row inmates.

· Explain
how to help a death row inmate prepare to die.

INTRODUCTION

Some prisons have "death
rows"--special units where prisoners are housed who have been condemned to
death by the legal system of their nation, state, or province. These
inmates are usually kept in segregated or maximum security facilities. Death
row is a unique segment of the penal institution, and this chapter is designed
to help you minister effectively in this environment.

HOW TO START A MINISTRY TO DEATH ROW INMATES

A ministry on death row--as any prison ministry--must be
approved by the chaplain or administration of the institution. In most
instances you will not immediately be allowed access to a death row. A
chaplain or administrator will want to observe you in other settings in the
prison-- in group or individual ministry to general population inmates.

Some institutions do not allow group ministries on death row
because of the security risks. Don't be discouraged--you may be allowed to
minister on a one-on-one basis through visiting or writing a death row inmate.
This can be very effective, both in terms of fostering genuine relationships
and sharing the Gospel message. It may also lead to the possibility of group
ministry later on.

If group meetings are not allowed, explore alternative ways
of ministering on death row. For example, in one institution where group
ministry was not permitted a video player was approved to be taken in and the
chaplain and volunteer ministries supplied Christian videos to the row. Some
modern institutions have closed circuit television capabilities and perhaps
these could be used to air video-taped services. Christian audio tapes may also
be permitted. You may also be able to match each death row inmate with a
Christian visitor who will minister one-on-one to them.

MINISTERING TO DEATH ROW INMATES

If you are ministering by writing or visiting one-on-one
with a death row inmate, review Chapters Four and Five of this manual for
guidelines on writing and visiting. If you are conducting group ministry, see
Chapters Six, Eleven, and Twelve. The general guidelines in these
chapters are applicable to death row also. Unique to death row are the
following guidelines:

· There are
sometimes different rules for visiting, writing, or conducting group services
on death row because of security issues. Inquire about these regulations
and abide by them religiously!

· If a death
row inmate maintains innocence, it is not your place to challenge it.
There are many instances where inmates have been released from death row after
it was proven without doubt that they were innocent. If they maintain
their innocence, pray with them that God will undertake and justice be done.

· Feelings
of isolation, depression, and hopelessness are very common because death
rowinmates are usually segregated, confined more often to their cells, and very
limited in options as to what prison programs they can participate in.
You can help by being an uplifting friend and providing ways to fill their time
(puzzles, games, arts and crafts, reading material, correspondence courses,
etc.--whatever is permitted by the institution).

· People are
usually sentenced to death row because of the violent nature of the crimes of
which they have been accused and convicted. Some may admit their guilt,
but not show any remorse for their crime. You must have the ability to
accept them just as they are and then--through love and the life changing power
of God--lead them to the place they need to be.

· You must
have a real understanding of Biblical regeneration: ". . .if anyone
is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all
things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Society may
still require the inmate to pay for his crimes with his life, but God has
forgiven him/her and they are a new creation. They are not the same
person who did the crime.

· Be sure
the death row inmate understands that turning to God does not necessarily mean
He will deliver them from death. Share Hebrews 11 with them. Many
godly people were delivered from death, but others were killed. Some were
delivered out of prison; others were not. God wants to give them dying faith as
well as living faith.

· Continue
to hold on in faith with a death row inmate until all legal appeal options have
been exhausted--but then don't be afraid to help him prepare if death is
eminent.

· Is there
someone they need to forgive? Guide them in the process.

· Are there
those to whom he needs to apologize and seek forgiveness victims, their
families, his own family or friends? Guide them in the process.

· If they
have young children, encourage them to write a special letter to the child to
be given to them when they are older.

· Do they
have any practical business matters that need to be concluded?

· Discuss
death openly, and the fact that as a believer, there is nothing to fear.
Everyone has an appointed time to die. The only difference between them and
other believers is, they know their date. This can be a positive thing,
for it gives them time to do and say what needs to be said and done.

For the believer, death is swallowed up in victory: Behold,
I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed--in a
moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will
sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For
this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on
immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal
has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is
written: "Death is swallowed up in victory. O Death, where is your
sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" (1 Corinthians 15:51-55)

Death releases us from the sins, trials, and burdens of this
life: For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a
building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in
this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is
from heaven, if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. For
we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be
unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. (2
Corinthians 5:1-4)

When a believer dies, it is precious in God's sight:
Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints. (Psalm
116:15) At death, the believer immediately enters the presence of the Lord. We
are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be
present with the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:8) Help them focus on eternity and the
tremendous things that await in Heaven. See Revelation chapters 21 and
22.

If a death row inmates asks you to be present at their death
to provide spiritual support, do so if the prison permits it. You can help make
it a glorious home coming instead of a frightful experience--for truly, the
death row inmate who has become a new creature in Christ will go right from
that death chamber into the presence of God!

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER EIGHT

1. Write the key verse from memory:

2. Summarize the suggestions given in this chapter on how to
start a death row ministry.

3. Discuss the guidelines given in this chapter for
ministering to death row inmates.

4. Discuss the suggestions given in this chapter for helping
a death row inmate face death.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual.)

CHAPTER NINE: Post-Prison Ministry

KEY VERSE: To open blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners
from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. (Isaiah
42:7)

OBJECTIVES:

· Identify
common needs of ex-offenders.

· Describe
types of post-prison ministries.

· List steps
for starting a post-prison ministry.

· Determine
your role in post-prison ministry.

INTRODUCTION

Some prisoners are released after serving their entire
sentence as prescribed by law. In some legal jurisdictions, after completing
part of their sentence, prisoners are eligible to go before a parole board. If
granted parole before finishing their sentence, they are released with certain
conditions, such as reporting regularly, not associating with ex-felons, and
restrictions governing living and working arrangements. Conditions for release
vary and are usually set by the court, a parole board, or a parole officer.
Inmates being released from prison have many needs as they reenter society.
This chapter will help you identify these needs, understand various types
of post-prison ministries, and define your role in ministering to
ex-offenders.

THE NEEDS OF THE EX-OFFENDER

Some inmates are blessed to be returning to supportive
families or churches upon release from prison, but if they do not have such a
support network then post-prison ministry is very important. Each person is
different and has unique needs, but here are some common needs most
ex-offenders share upon discharge from an institution.

He needs to be accepted in a local church that is nurturing
and supportive so he can develop spiritually. Invite him/her to go to
church with you. Sit with them and invite them to have a meal or snack
with you after service.

He needs housing, food, and clothing. Inmates who have
no "street clothes sometimes need a "parole box"--a box
containing clothes, underwear, and shoes that he can wear when he leaves the
institution grounds.

He needs vocational training and/or a job.

He may need financial counseling (basics of budgeting,
maintaining personal finances, etc.) A special note: Don't give financial
help personally to an ex- offender. It is better that financial assistance be
channeled through your church or the administrators of a post-prison
program.

Family counseling is important if he is trying to reunite
his family.

He may need additional personal counseling for addictions
like drugs and alcohol. Believers who have made a commitment to Christ may find
addictive temptations one of their first spiritual battles on the outside.

If he has been incarcerated for a long time, he may need
assistance with even simple decisions because inmates have very limited options
for making decisions in prison.

He needs a strong support network of friends who will love
and accept him, pray for and with him, and help him work through problems. In
addition, find out as much as possible about the inmate before release. This
knowledge will assist in post-prison ministry. Determine his job skills
and educational level. Find out where he is paroling to (sometimes
it is required that an inmate go to a certain geographic location). Discuss
plans with the chaplain and the appropriate institution authorities before you
speak to the inmate about it. Do not promise anything if you cannot follow
through on it.

POST-PRISON MINISTRIES

There are different types of post-prison ministries which
you may want to start and/or to which an inmate can be referred:

A Christian "half way house." This is
a group home for ex-offenders and is called "half-way" because it is
a transition between prison and getting back into normal society. This
type of ministry usually provides housing, food, counseling, and job placement
assistance to its residents. Participants may remain there for a set time
dictated by authorities or until they find employment and housing. Some
group homes have a discipleship program and participants are required to complete
the program before moving out on their own. If you start a half-way
house, it is important that you have strict rules concerning drugs, alcohol,
curfews, and other general behavior standards.

The local rescue mission: Some cities operate rescue missions
that accept ex-offenders into their discipleship and vocational programs.

Government or privately operated programs: Some areas
have government or privately operated programs to help ex-offenders be
integrated back into society. These may include group homes, vocational
counseling, and other assistance.

Church based programs: A local church may choose to start an
ex-offenders group, offering assistance in housing, counseling, and job
placement. Business owners in the church may be recruited to give an ex-felon
a job. One church opened a fast-food restaurant that was run entirely by
born-again ex-felons.

Christian colleges and Bible schools: Some offer
scholarships, room, and board to promising ex-felons. If you are an
administrator of a Christian college or Bible school, this would be a
tremendous post-prison ministry to offer.

STARTING A POST PRISON MINISTRY

Here are five steps for starting a post-prison ministry:

STEP ONE: Pray. All things are fueled by prayer. Pray
about what God would have you do in the area of post-prison ministries.

STEP TWO: Consult your spiritual leader. If you are a
pastor, consult with your board. If you are a church member, talk with
your pastor. This is important for several reasons:

· It is
common courtesy.

· Spiritual
leaders can guide and provide valuable input to you.

· Your
spiritual leader may already have plans underway for such a ministry.

· If so, be
part of it, don't undermine it.

STEP THREE: Do an analysis.

Here are some questions to answer in your analysis:

· Are there
any local post-prison ministries? If so, what are they? (You may want to
become part of a post-prison ministry already in existence.)

· What needs
exist in your community in regards to post-prison resources?

· What needs
can you and/or your church fill? (Try not to duplicate efforts of other
Christian organizations. We should complement, not compete with one another.)

STEP FOUR: Visit a similar ministry

If you decide to start a post-prison ministry, visit a
similar ministry that exists elsewhere. Learn from their successes and
failures.

· Facilities:
What type of facility is needed? Where will it be located? Can you
get required approvals by the local government to locate the facility in the area
you are considering?

· Staffing:
Who will run the post-prison ministry? What are the necessary
qualifications? Will the positions be paid or volunteer?

DETERMINING YOUR ROLE

What will your role be in post-prison ministry? It
depends on the answer to the following questions:

1. What is permitted by the institution in which you
minister? Some institutions prohibit volunteers who minister inside the
prison from working with inmates after their release. They reason that
should the inmate return to prison, they might be too familiar with the
volunteer or be shown special favors because of their relationship outside the
institution.

2. Where are you most effective? Are you more
effective ministering to inmates inside or upon release from prison?
Where does your interest and vision lie? Which gives you the greatest joy and
the greatest spiritual results?

3. What are your time and energy limitations?
You can't be everything to everyone. Due to personal time and energy
restraints, you may need to confine yourself to ministering to inmates either
inside or upon release, but not both. If your institution does not permit your
involvement with inmates upon release or you do not have the time or burden for
post-prison ministries, then you will want to serve only as a referral agent.
Make a list of churches, individuals, or para-church organizations involved in
post-prison ministries and refer inmates to them. Whatever your involvement,
your role should be that of a friend and facilitator. Don't become a
crutch for the inmate. Be available, but don't smother him/her.
Encourage self-reliance.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER NINE

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. What are some of the common needs of ex-offenders
discussed in this chapter?

3. List some types of post-prison ministries.

4. List the steps for starting a post-prison ministry.

5. What three questions should determine your role in
post-prison ministry?

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual.)

CHAPTER TEN: Institutional And Inmate Typogology

KEY VERSE: The spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because
the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me
to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the
opening of the prison to them that are bound. . . (Isaiah 61:1)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Demonstrate
understanding of institutional security levels.

· Discuss
differences between jails, prisons, and other facilities.

· Discuss
common inmate typology.

· Explain
how to deal with inmates who maintain their innocence.

INTRODUCTION

Are some inmates considered more dangerous than others? Are
there any differences between a jail and a prison? Do inmates share any common
characteristics? How do you respond to someone who maintains their innocence?
These are key issues that are addressed in this chapter.

INSTITUTIONAL TYPOLOGY

Each jail and prison is unique, but most institutions are classified
by the type of inmates they house:

· Maximum
security institutions: These house inmates that are the greatest risk, perhaps
due to the nature of their crime or their behavior in prison. Death rows
are usually located in maximum security institutions. These inmates have very
close supervision and their participation in institutional programs run by
volunteers is sometimes restricted.

· Medium
security institutions: These are less violent inmates who do not pose a great
security or escape risk. They do not require as much supervision and may be
allowed to freely participate in religious programs.

· Minimum
security institutions: These are composed of inmates who are close to their
release date, incarcerated for non-violent crimes, or those who have proven
themselves to be extremely reliable and trustworthy. They may even work outside
the prison on occasion and usually have freedom to participate in religious
programs.

Some institutions house all three security levels in various
areas of the same facility. Each of these levels are often found in jails
also. Institutions sometimes clothe the inmates in uniforms of differing
colors to identify the various security levels.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN JAILS AND PRISONS

Although jails and prisons both house offenders, there are
differences between the two. Prison inmates have been tried and convicted. Jail
is usually the entry point for all prisoners. Many jail inmates haven't been
convicted of anything yet. Most are being held pending trial. Some are being
held pending sentencing. Some may be serving sentences so brief that it doesn't
warrant sending them to a prison.

Prison population is relatively stable. People serve
longer terms so you have more time to work with them. Jail population is very
transient. People are held in jails only while awaiting trial, sentencing, or
serving brief sentences. Your time with them is limited.

Some prisons have at least a minimum of facilities and
programs for counseling and rehabilitation, but most jails have few or none.
Prisons usually have better facilities for group meetings such as church
services and group Bible studies.

The physical, emotional, and psychological conditions of
jail inmates are different from and less favorable than those in prisons. There
is usually no privacy in which to talk with individual inmates in jails. The
prisoners in jails are often bored, restless, and fearful. Most of all,
uncertainty rules their lives.

OTHER TYPES OF FACILITIES

Other types of programs of confinement include:

· Work
release centers: Allow an inmate to hold a job in the community
during the day and return to the center for confinement at night.

· Halfway
house: For persons on parole. They are required to stay at the house
while seeking employment and a permanent place to live. They may be
required to complete certain counseling or training programs offered at the
halfway house.

· Road camp,
fire camp, forestry camp, or work farm: Inmates work on roads, fight fires, or
work on public forests or a farm.

· Detention,
juvenile hall, or reformatory: Typically for young offenders to be kept
separate from older prisoners.

· Despite
the distracting environment, jails, prisons, and other penal programs are
some of the greatest spiritual harvest fields in the world. Jesus only
had a few minutes with the dying thief on the cross, but his entire destiny was
changed for all eternity.

INMATE TYPOLOGY

Each inmate is unique. God loves each one and is not willing
that any should perish. There is no "typical" inmate in God's
sight, but there are some common characteristics that will help you understand
the majority.

Education: Often, the educational level of inmates is low.

Home environment: Inmates often come from homes where
there was abuse, divorce, little supervision, and no discipline.

Vocational training: Many inmates have little or no
vocational training. They may have been unsuccessful at obtaining or maintaining
employment or labored at low paying jobs.

Self-image: Inmates often have low self-image because they
have been rejected by society, friends, or family.

Emotional profile: Many inmates suffer from guilt over what
they have done or put their families through. Depression, hopelessness,
and hostility are common.

Social responsibility: Inmates sometimes have a limited
sense of social responsibility. They may feel no remorse for their crime or
that they got a "bad break" from the system by coming to prison.

Common Offenses: Four crimes account for the majority of
prison inmates in most countries: Robbery, burglary, murder, and narcotics
violations. Other common reasons for incarceration are sexual
offenses, kidnaping, assault, embezzlement, forgery, and fraud.

Inmates also assume various roles in prison that you should
be aware of in ministry: "Hecklers" may come to a Bible class as
earnest students and then disrupt by asking unanswerable questions. They
may try to pour out scandalous stories about the church and ministers or turn
testimony time into a gripe session. Maintain control of group sessions
by continually bringing the group back to the subject at hand.

Perennial seekers respond to every altar call due to a lack
of understanding of what conversion is all about, a desire to please you, or
because they have lived like a sinner since they last responded. Continue to
receive them warmly when they respond and pray with them. When they are secure
in their relationship with God and really understand conversion, they will
change.

Manipulators are those who may be charming and agreeable,
but try to use you to accomplish their own purposes. Review "How To Avoid
A Setup" in Chapter Eleven of this manual for suggestions in how to deal
with them.

Institutionalized inmates are those who have been confined
for a lengthy period of time and have difficulty functioning apart from an
institutional setting. If they return to prison after paroling, don't be
discouraged. They may be sincere in their confession of the Lord but just need
more skills for adjusting to life outside.

Remember--these characteristics are not true of all inmates.
Some are very educated and held high paying jobs. Some came from good
homes and supportive families. Some are sincere seekers, desiring to learn
about God. These general characteristics are based on numerous studies of the
majority of prison inmates.

Most important, remember to view each inmate not as they
were, or even as they are. View them as the valiant men and women of God that
they will become when the Gospel has supernaturally impacted their lives!

ARE SOME REALLY INNOCENT?

Many inmates maintain their innocence. For some who
are actually guilty, this can be an escape mechanism. They cannot face
what they did, so they rationalize or blame others. But please—be
aware--some inmates who maintain their innocence actually are
innocent! There have been many cases where inmates were released
from prison after it was proven--beyond a doubt—that they were wrongly
convicted. (This applies to former death row inmates also!)

You are not there to judge the guilt or innocence of an
inmate. You are there to be a friend and minister God's love to
them. Be supportive. Tell them you will pray for God to undertake
in their case and for justice to be done.

Remember that--for various reasons--many heroes of the faith
ended up with prison records. Joseph spent at least two years in prison after
he was falsely accused of attempted rape (Genesis 39). Samson was imprisoned by
the Philistines (Judges 16). Jeremiah was put into King Zedekiah's
dungeon twice, once for unpopular preaching and once when falsely accused of
treason (Jeremiah 32,37).

Many of the apostles were thrown into prison by the
Sadducees (Acts 5). Herod imprisoned John the Baptist (Matthew 4)
and Peter (Acts 12), as well as Paul. The apostle Paul had a
lengthy prison record. He served sentences in Jerusalem (Acts 23), in
Caesarea (Acts 23), a local jail in Philippi (Acts 16), and probably two different
times in a prison in Rome.

Christians have been imprisoned throughout church
history--John Bunyan and Dietrich Bonhoeffer are two most notable believers who
were incarcerated. Modern China, Russia, and Uganda have seen thousands
of believers imprisoned and martyred.

Jesus said that being a faithful Christian may lead to
prison (Matthew 10 and 24). Conversely, being a prisoner may also lead to
faith--as one death row inmate discovered on Calvary. Always remember . . .
there are great men and women of faith on both sides of the prison wall.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER TEN

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. List and describe the common security levels.

3. Discuss the differences between jails and prisons.

4. What are some other facilities of confinement discussed
in this chapter?

5. Discuss what you learned in this chapter regarding inmate
typology.

6. How should you deal with inmates who maintain their
innocence?

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual.)

CHAPTER ELEVEN: Dress And Safety Codes

KEY VERSE: Let every soul be subject to the governing
authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities
that exist are appointed by God. (Romans 13:1)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Describe
dress codes applicable for all penal institutions.

· Summarize
safety codes applicable for all penal institutions.

· Give
guidelines for surviving a hostage incident.

INTRODUCTION

Most penal institutions have specific dress and safety
codes. Be sure to inquire about these, and ask for them in writing if they are
available. In this chapter, you will learn general dress and safety codes
applicable to all institutions. You will also learn how to survive a hostage
incident, in the rare instance that one should ever occur.

APPROPRIATE ATTIRE

Each jail and prison usually has a dress code that applies
to their specific institution. For example, some institutions prohibit
volunteers and visitors from wearing colors that resemble inmate or guard
uniforms. Be sure to ask about the rules for the specific institution you are
visiting. Here are some general rules of appropriate attire applicable to all
institutions:

· Do not
wear tight, form fitting clothing.

· Do not
wear low cut necklines.

· Avoid tee
shirts with emblems and slogans as an outer garment.

· No
gang-related attire.

· Do not
wear see-through or revealing clothing.

· No shorts.

For women:

· Dresses or
skirts should come below the knee.

· Avoid
attire that reveals underwear straps.

(some institutions ban sleeveless dresses and blouses
for this reason).

Generally speaking, wear attire that is appropriate in the
business world. You are there on business for the King of Kings!

SAFETY CODES

Each jail and prison usually has a dress code that applies
to their specific institution. Be sure to ask about the rules for the
institution you are visiting. Adherence to the rules will insure that
your Christian witness is valid and will make your ministry effective. Learn
and obey all the rules at your local institution.

Here are some general rules applicable to all institutions:

1. Leave the following at home or in your car: Purses,
wallets, briefcases, money and non-essentials.

2. Always carry identification. Many institutions insist on
your identification having a photo.

3. Be prepared to submit to a search at any time.

4. Meet and arrive together if you are coming to minister as
a group. Some institutions will escort you to your destination.

5. Be sure to adhere to the dress code of the
institution.

6. Always consult the chaplain or a staff member when in
doubt. Do not assume anything!

7. If you are ministering in a group, keep your eyes on each
other, especially while entering and exiting the institution. (Note: Men should
keep ladies in view at male institutions and ladies do the same for men at
female institutions.) Don't stray from the group.

8. Never run in the institution. Running usually
indicates that someone is being chased or is chasing someone. It is usually
perceived as a danger signal.

9. Learn your way around the institution. Do not enter
any restricted areas. Always walk on the sidewalks. Do not take short
cuts (they could lead to danger).

10. Know emergency procedures. Some institutions have alarms
in the meeting rooms or give personal alarms or whistles to volunteers. You are
expected to obey an officer when an order, command, direction or instruction is
given. This is for your protection and the security of the institution. If you
can't be an asset during an emergency, get out of the way. In the event
of an emergency situation that affects a significant portion of the
inmate population at an institution, the visiting program and other activities
may be suspended during the emergency.

11. In the event of a medical emergency with an inmate, know
the procedure for summoning medical aid.

12. If a crime is committed. . .

· Call for
help immediately

· Secure the
crime scene.

· Remain in
control and calm others around you.

13. Do not take any contraband items into an
institution. These obviously include drugs, explosives, alcohol, and
weapons. It also includes items that you might not think of--for example
something like chewing gum which can be used as a mold to imprint keys or jam
locks. Be sure to ask what is permissible to take in with you.

14. Never take medications (legal drugs) into any
institution. Do not enter the institution with your abilities impaired by
medication.

15. Never take cameras or tape recorders onto prison grounds
without permission. Photos are considered a security risk if they fall into the
wrong hands.

16. Never leave your clothing (coats, sweaters, etc.) where
it may be picked up and used by prisoners in an escape attempt.

17. If you are given keys, keep them on you at all
time. Do not lay them down anywhere! If you are responsible for
closing up a room and locking it, be sure to search the room before doing
so. Check store rooms, under desks, corners, bathrooms. Be sure it
is empty.

18. Officers assigned to entrances, exits, and gates are
responsible for identifying you and for searching any car, package, purse, or
briefcase that passes through. When the officer at the gate is processing a
visitor or inmates, do not interrupt him.

19. Do not take messages to or from inmates--verbal or
written--outside the institution. Passing messages for prisoners to
others outside could--unknowingly--be contributing to an escape attempt.

20. Many institutions issue an identification badge or card
to volunteers. Be sure to wear or carry this with you at all times on
institutional grounds.

SURVIVING HOSTAGE SITUATIONS

Chances are remote--but if you are providing services in
correctional institutions you must be alert to the possibility of being taken
hostage. The following guidelines are used with permission of the
American Correctional Association:

1. Be cautious of heroics. Don't act foolishly.

2. Be cooperative and obey hostage takers' demands without
appearing either servile or antagonistic.

3. Look for a protected place where you could hide if either
authorities or inmates attempt to assault your location with force.

4. Keep calm.

5. Keep a low profile. Avoid the appearance of observing
crimes that rioters commit. Look down or away. Avoid interfering with their
discussions or activities.

6. Do not make threats against hostage takers or give any
indication that you would testify against them. If inmates are attempting to
conceal their identities, make no indication that you recognize them.

7. Be reluctant to give up your identification or clothes.
Loss of these things is demoralizing. Inmates will use them for bargaining. Be
especially resistant to exchanging clothes with an inmate. This could put you
in much greater danger in case of an assault.

8. As a result of the stress of the hostage situation, you
may have difficulty retaining fluids. If it is possible and the hostage
incident is lengthy, try to drink water and eat--even if you are not hungry.

9. Do not say or do anything to arouse the hostility or
suspicions of your captors. Act neutral and be a good listener if your captors
want to talk. Be cautious about making suggestions to your captors as you may
be held responsible if something you suggest goes wrong.

10. Think of persuasive reasons the hostage takers should
keep you and the other hostages alive and not harm you. Encourage them to let
authorities know your whereabouts and condition. Suggest possible ways you or
others may benefit your captors in negotiations that would free you.

11. If you, as hostage, end up serving as negotiator between
inmates and authorities, messages between the two groups should be conveyed
accurately.

12. If there is an assault to rescue and shots are fired,
drop quickly to the floor and seek cover. Keep your hands on your head. When
appropriate, identify yourself. Do not resist being apprehended until positive
identification is made.

13. Even though you must appear disinterested while being
held hostage, observe all you can and make notes immediately after your
release. All of these things will help in subsequent prosecution of the
rioters. Most important--in addition to the above practical guidelines--pray
fervently and maintain your dependence on the Holy Spirit. Remember
that nothing happens without God's permission. Therefore, keep in mind that
"All things work together for good to them that love God" (Romans
8:28). You have nothing to fear. God will deliver you according to
His will and time frame. If need be, He can send legions of angels to rescue
you!

A final note: Please do not let this necessary
discussion of safety codes and hostage-taking discourage you from entering the
prison ministry. Your are in more danger on the highways of your city than
going into a prison! Inmates have even been known to shield volunteers
from rioters because they knew they really cared.

4. Summarize the guidelines given in this chapter for
surviving a hostage incident.

5. Obtain a list of the dress and safety codes for the
institution in which you are visiting or ministering. Insert these in the
final section (Chapter Thirteen) of this manual which is designed for material
unique to your specific institution.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual).

CHAPTER TWELVE: Relating To Inmates

KEY VERSE: In humility correcting those who are in
opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know
the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of
the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will. (2 Timothy
2:25-26)

OBJECTIVES:

Upon conclusion of this chapter you will be able to:

· Explain
the first rule for relating with inmates.

· Summarize
guidelines for relating to inmates.

· Define a
"setup."

· Explain
how a setup occurs.

· List three
ways to avoid a setup.

INTRODUCTION

As a member of a prison ministry team, you represent Jesus
Christ--not yourself. You are His ambassador. By your actions, words
and/or dress, you can help or hinder the work of His Church behind bars.

Building relationships is not easy outside a prison and it
isn't easy inside the prison. Some inmates may not be interested in spiritual
matters. Some may completely reject you. Others may try to use you to further
their own ends. It may help to recall Jesus' parable of the sower of seed and
the four kinds of soil upon which the seed fell. Inmates, like everyone else,
will fit into one of those categories.

This chapter provides guidelines for successfully relating
to inmates in a jail or prison setting.

THE FIRST RULE

The first rule in relating to inmates: Learn and
follow all the rules specific to the institution where you are ministering:
These include such things as visiting hours, who can and cannot come in, what
can be brought in, where you can and cannot go, and the dress code.
Chapter Eleven of this manual provides further information on matters
pertaining to dress and safety codes which will not be repeated here.
This chapter concerns relationships with inmates in personal contact and group
situations.

GUIDELINES FOR RELATING TO INMATES

1. Inmates have had a great deal of
frustration in their lives. Many have experienced repeated failure and are
suspicious of any offer of assistance or guidance. Working with inmates
cannot be reduced to a standard method. Much will be left to your good
judgment. The following are general guidelines, however, to use in
relating to inmates:

2. Don't establish a facade or create
special status for yourself. Express yourself genuinely. Let the inmates know
you are there out of genuine concern, because it is what the Lord will have you
do. As a volunteer, you will be checked out and tested to see if you are
real. Inmates will see what you are before they listen to what you say. They
don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. Be
honest. Inmates are very sensitive to hypocrisy and phonies.

3. Learn as much of the prison-related
language as possible, but be careful in using it. There may be subtle meanings
of which you are unaware.

4. Learn to present the salvation message
in a clear and simple way. Big words such as "propitiation" and
"atonement" don't mean much to the average inmate.

5. Be sensitive during crisis periods
which include immediately following arrest, the first few weeks in prison,
prior to and right after a trial, when appeals are denied, and just prior to
release. Holidays are also difficult periods.

6. Mean what you say. Yes is yes, no
is no. Be consistent and fair. Enforcing rules for some and relaxing them for
others is inconsistent and unfair. It is also a form of over-familiarity.

7. Be supportive, encouraging, friendly
and firm. Be honest, objective, and disapproving when it is warranted. Be
friendly, but not overly familiar.

8. Respect is the key. You must respect
the inmate's individuality and basic rights. Avoid prejudices and feelings of
superiority. Respond to the inmate's needs and interests, not your own. Once
you have earned the respect and trust of the inmate, he will be open to you.

9. Never allow residents to manipulate you
with over-dramatized stories of being falsely accused, unjustly incarcerated,
or inhumanely treated. These are often used to arouse sympathy or manipulate
you. If you think the story is true--and in some cases they
are--inform the inmate of your intentions to share it with the chaplain and ask
him to handle it.

10. Never make inflammatory statements or careless
remarks to staff or inmates about political groups, ethnic groups, other
religious groups, prison staff, individual residents, or other prison ministry
volunteers.

11. Never assume an inmate is innocent or guilty and
do not give legal counsel or advice. You are not a lawyer or judge.

12. Never reveal personal details, if you are privy to
them, about the lives of staff or other inmates.

13. A good policy is to make only promises you know
you can fulfill, and then as few of them as possible. When refusing a request
explain why it is necessary and express your regrets.

14. One of the best ways to avoid familiarity in a
group setting is to address each member of the ministry team, as well as the
inmates, as "brother" or "sister"--using first or last
names. (This is not necessary in one-on-one visiting or corresponding with an
inmate.)

15. Do not routinely give out your home address or
telephone number. Some institutions make it expensive for residents to make any
phone calls, even local ones--and you are usually expected to pay the
costs. If you do give out your number, establish how often you want to
receive telephone calls.

16. Never inquire as to why the resident is in prison.
This could be embarrassing and you don't need to know why he/she is there to
point him/her to Christ. Some inmates want to tell you about their case, and if
so, it is all right to listen, encourage, and pray with them.

17. Guard against over-familiarity--especially
advances of a sexual nature. Your relationship with inmates--especially
in a group setting--should be professional. Guard your emotions, especially if
you are of the opposite sex. Expressions of affection will cause you to
lose your volunteer status. If an inmate makes an improper advance,
handle it appropriately and then notify the chaplain or an administrator. At
minimum, it is a test to see what your limits are.

18. Never become involved in transacting personal
business for residents.

19. Do not be shocked or surprised by anything
prisoners might say or how they say it.

20. Never deliberately try to persuade prisoners to
change their religious preference. You are there to share the Gospel--and
it will do any changing that is necessary.

21. Earn respect for yourself. Make it clear that you
will not be manipulated. If a situation arises that you consider
"borderline," check with prison officials to be sure of how it is to
be handled.

22. Expect hostility. An inmate, overwhelmed with
problems, may confront you with hostility. At such times do not force
conversation upon him and don't respond in a hostile, sarcastic, or anxious
manner. Keep your composure, ignore the hostility, or withdraw for awhile.
Chances are that the inmate will regain his composure. Always express
unconditional love.

23. Don't over-identify. Don't take the inmate's
problems upon yourself. They are not your problems. Over-identifying with
inmates can bring about the we/they syndrome: "They are wrong about
you."

24. Don't expect thanks. You may not receive thanks or
any show of gratitude from the inmate. He may feel it, but may not know how to
express it. However, your effort will be appreciated and rewarded by God.

25. You must set the limits. Some inmates will
push you until you say to stop. How hard and far they push will depend on what
you allow. Don't compromise.

26. Don't panic if you find yourself alone with an
inmate.

27. Leave your personal problems at home. Inmates have
enough problems of their own. They don't need to be burdened with yours.

28. In a temperate and tolerant manner, always imply
that you expect the correct attitude from inmates.

29. Never show the slightest uncertainty as to the
course of your action. You must be a leader in the strongest sense of the word,
but also know and adhere to the limits of your authority.

30. Never show that you have been angered by being
profane, vulgar, or abusive in any manner.

31. Express appreciation when behavior has been
commendable--"You guys were great tonight--so attentive!"

32. If prisoners request letters of recommendation to
judges and other criminal justice authorities, inform them you will pass this
request on to the chaplain for evaluation and possible action.

33. Minister through personal counseling.
Counseling provides a friendly and supportive relationship for the one
seeking answers or a solution to a problem. This type of relationship can take
place at the close of a worship service or Bible study session, when some
prisoners may want to talk about what they heard or may have a problem to talk
about. Most of the time they are not actually seeking solutions. They just want
someone to listen and possibly be an encouraging and supportive
friend.

34. You may have access to information which is
confidential. You are not to reveal this information to anyone not having an
official right to it. The information is not to be used for your own advantage
or benefit. You must be able to deal with an individual's spiritual problems as
if you know nothing about his/her crimes. Keep issues discussed in
counseling confidential unless they are a threat to institution security or if
you learn that the inmate intends to do something drastic to himself or someone
else. In these cases, don't tell him that you are going to report it, but
report it.

35. Be a good listener. You don't have to have
answers to everything, but let them know that God does! If you think a
prisoner needs formal counseling, encourage him/her to seek it through
institutional channels.

36. Don't make decisions for the inmate under any
circumstances. Help them make their own decisions. This encourages
responsibility for their own lives. Also, it prevents them from blaming
you if things go wrong.

37. Don't judge ideas or the inmate by appearance,
vocabulary, or manner of speaking. View inmates as individuals. Don't make
assumptions based upon generalities or stereotypes. Categorizing an inmate is
unfair and dehumanizing.

38. Don't interrupt immediately if you think a
statement is wrong. Listen!

39. Don't scold or interrogate them about their
previous condition or what they may have done to be placed in here. Many
already have a poor self-image.

40. Be patient. The positive effects of your patience
with the inmate may not have a decisive influence for awhile. bove all,
don't ever become discouraged. Do your best, pray, and leave the results with
God.

AVOIDING A SETUP

Quick sand is a patch of sand that looks like any other on
the surface, but it is a dangerous patch of ground that can suck you under and
cost your life. It is not as it appears on the surface.

This is often true in relationships. People are not
always as they seem to be on the surface. While not all inmates are steeped in
criminal behavior, many of them are and because of that you must learn how to
avoid a setup in the institutional environment.

WHAT IS A SETUP?

A "setup" is a situation where you are forced into
compromising your own beliefs, standards, or institutional rules.
You are forced or tricked into a compromising situation, and then taken
advantage of by an inmate to receive favors or contraband like drugs, alcohol,
etc.

HOW DOES A SETUP OCCUR?

A setup usually proceeds as follows:

Observation: Inmates first observe your ability or
inability to function under stress, your level of tolerance, whether or not you
adhere to rules, and how effectively you will take command in a difficult
situation.

Testing: Before any conclusions can be drawn, inmates test
their assumptions about you in minor ways. This may include such things as
unauthorized requests for supplies and materials, asking for favors,
circumventing rules, preying on sympathy, or attempting to engage you in intimate
conversations. If you yield in these "minor areas," then
you are a prime candidate for a setup.

The Setup: If you compromise minor rules or engage in
intimate or inappropriate behavior, then an inmate sets you up by using this as
a lever to get what they actually wanted all along. They will threaten to tell
the administration about your minor infractions in the past or inform you that
have actually been tricked into doing something illegal. They use this as
a lever to get what they want—perhaps contraband like drugs or alcohol or
other favors.

AVOIDING A SETUP:

You can avoid a setup by. . .

1. Maintaining a professional attitude:

Professionalism is a word used to describe a specific
attitude towards ministry in jails and prisons. Professionalism means that your
standards and life-style should be better than the standards and life-style of
the majority of people confined to prison. You are not being professional if
you use inmate jargon or manipulate institutional rules as some inmates
do.

2. Avoiding familiarity:

We have stressed this repeatedly in this manual--you can
maintain professionalism while still being friendly. Make a distinction between
friendliness and familiarity. You are overly familiar if you allow the taking
of license or liberties. Enforcing rules for one person but relaxing them for
others is one example. Engaging in intimate conversations or promising favors
that are not within your jurisdiction to give are others.

3. Refusing to violate rules under any circumstance:

A set-up always involves a previous infraction of
rules. Refuse to violate rules under any circumstance.

4. Immediately reporting a setup attempt:

If you are approached in this manner or you find yourself
ensnared in a setup, immediately report it to the chaplain or administration.

SELF-TEST FOR CHAPTER TWELVE

1. Write the key verse from memory.

2. What is the first rule for properly relating with
inmates?

3. Summarize at least four of the guidelines for relating to
inmates given in this chapter.

4. What is a setup?

5. How does a setup occur?

6. List four ways to avoid a setup.

(Answers to self-tests are provided at the conclusion
of the final chapter in this manual.)

CHAPTER THIRTEEN: Individualized Guidelines

This manual provides general guidelines for ministry
applicable to most jail and prison settings. This final section is reserved for
insertion of specific guidelines unique to the institution in which you will be
ministering.

Here are some suggested items to insert in this section of
the manual:

· An
organizational chart for your prison ministry and/or that of the institution in
which you will be ministering. (An organizational chart shows who is part
of your ministry and who you are responsible to within the institution.)

· Rules for
dress and safety specific to your institution.

· Guidelines
on what you as a volunteer--or your ministry team--may bring or send into the
institution where you minister: Bibles? Bible studies?
Tracts? Cassette tapes? Videos?

· Specific
guidelines for visiting inmates, including visitation days and hours and what
can and cannot be brought or sent in.

· Guidelines
for corresponding with inmates and items that can be sent through the mail.

· If you are
a chaplain or a volunteer coordinator and have developed training materials
unique to your institution, insert these materials in this section.

· If you are
a Bible college instructor, insert your lecture notes and handouts in this
section.

CONCLUSION

But the Word of God is not bound. (2 Timothy 2:9)

Jesus is in your local jail. He is doing time in
prison . . . "Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, `Lord, when did
we see You. . .in prison, and come to You?' And the King will answer and
say to them, `Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the
least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'" (Matthew 25:37-40)

From a spiritual standpoint, there is no value that can be
placed on the soul of a man, woman, or young person: "For what profit is
it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a
man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26)

From a purely financial standpoint, every person kept out of
prison saves thousands of dollars a year in direct costs of
incarceration. This doesn't include the social service expenses for their
families provided by some governments, nor does it calculate the tremendous
human costs to the family or economic contributions the prisoner would make if
gainfully employed.

By accepting the mandate for jail and prison ministries--by
marching fearlessly past the rows of razor wire and armed guard posts--you are
going into the very depths of hell to mine precious gems for the Lord.

Oh yes--there will be some who do not receive your
message. There will be others who will profess, but not really
possess. There will be some who return back to their old ways. But
remember . . . God started with a man and woman with a perfect heritage who
lived in a perfect environment, and both of them failed. When Jesus revealed
that He must suffer, many disciples ceased to follow Him--they were not willing
to pay the cost.

In His final hours, His remaining disciples fled, one denied
Him, and one betrayed Him--yet several of these men fulfilled the great
challenge of taking the Gospel to the nations of the world.

Do not measure the worth of jail and prison ministries by
your failures. Measure its worth by your successes. You are part of
a world-wide network that is changing the world--One jail and prison at a time,
one person at a time.

There are many challenges to jail and prison ministry, but
there are also tremendous rewards. Volunteers often start working with inmates
and ex offenders thinking, "I'll go into this dark place and take the love
of God." Very often, they come out testifying, "I got more than
I gave."

By accepting the mandate of jail and prison ministry you
become part of an exciting team—a world-wide network of volunteers who
are gathering up jewels for the Master.

"They shall be Mine," says the LORD of hosts,
"On the day that I make them My jewels. . .And I will spare them as a man
spares his own son who serves him." (Malachi 3:17)

Continue to raise up spiritual sons and daughters until the
Master returns:

· Don't ever
be discouraged.

· Don't ever
lose the vision.

· Don't ever
give up on an inmate.

· Don't ever
quit.

"Lift up your eyes all around, and see: they all gather
together, they come to you; your sons shall come from afar, and your daughters
shall be nursed at your side." (Isaiah 60:4)

APPENDIX ONE

Dictionary

You do not need to know inmate slang to conduct jail and
prison ministry, but some basic terminology used frequently in prisons is
helpful. The following terms are common in prisons throughout the United
States.

Note: If you are preparing this manual for use in
another country, you may want to remove this section and substitute one
more appropriate to your institution.

Ad Seg: Administrative Segregation. Placement in a
controlled unit for the safety and security of the institution.
Also called the "hole."

All day: A life sentence, as in "He's doing all day . .
."

Badge: A guard, correctional officer.

Banger: A knife. Also called a burner or a shank.

Beef: A disciplinary charge, as to "catch a beef."

Big House: Prison.

Big Jab: Lethal injection. Also called the
"needle."

Blanket party: Throwing a blanket over a despised prisoner,
so he or she can't identify an attacker.

Blind: Area where correctional officers cannot see.

Books: Trust fund account. All money received by a prisoner
is placed into a trust account and may be withdrawn for canteen
purchases, special orders, postage, and other expenses.

Box: A carton of cigarettes.

Bull: Guard.

Bunkie: The person with whom a prisoner shares a double bunk
bed.

C-file: The central file. The critical information
maintained on each prisoner.

Call: Time for specified events -- e.g., mail call or sick
call. May be known in some jurisdictions as a call out.

Acts 12:1-2: James, the brother of John, put to death by the
sword at the command of Herod.

Acts 12:3-17: Peter imprisoned and released by an angel of
the Lord.

Acts 12:18-19: Herod puts to death the guards who had been
watching Peter.

Acts 14:19: Paul stoned by the crowd and assumed dead.

Acts 16:25-39: Paul and Silas beaten and imprisoned. An
earthquake erupts, the prison doors fly open, the chains are loosed. The jailer
accepts salvation and Paul and Silas are freed by the magistrates.

Acts 20:22-24: Paul predicts his imprisonment in Jerusalem.

Acts 21:11: Agabus, a prophet, confirms that Paul will be
imprisoned in Jerusalem.

Acts 21:30-35: The crowd in Jerusalem seizes Paul with the
intention to kill him. Paul is saved by Roman soldiers.

Acts chapter 27:1-28:15: Paul's trip to Rome while in
custody of Roman soldiers.

Acts 28:17-20: Paul talks about his imprisonment.

Acts 28:16: Paul allowed to live in his own house with a
guard to watch him.

2 Corinthians 11:23: Paul talks about his imprisonments and
hardships he has suffered for Christ.

Ephesians 3:1; 4:1: Paul states he is a prisoner of
Christ.

Ephesians 6:20: Paul states he is an ambassador in chains.

Philippians 1:11-18: Paul states that his imprisonment
has advanced the cause of Christ.

Colossians 4:10: Aristarchus is a fellow prisoner of
Paul.

2 Timothy 1:8: Paul asks that people not be ashamed of his
bondage in Christ.

2 Timothy 1:16-17: Paul blesses Onesiphorus for his ministry
to him in prison.

2 Timothy 2:9: Paul says that although he is bound, the Word
of God is not bound.

2 Timothy 4:16-17: The Lord stood by Paul's side when
everyone else deserted him because of his imprisonment.

Philemon 1:9-10: Paul requests mercy for Onesimus who
was saved in prison.

Philemon 1:23: Epaphras, a fellow prisoner of Paul.

Hebrews 13:3: Remember those in prison as if you were their
fellow prisoners.

1 Peter 3:19: Christ ministers to those in prison.

2 Peter 2:4: God imprisoned the angels who revolted against
Him.

Jude 1:6: God imprisoned the angels who revolted against
Him.

Revelation 2:10: The devil will imprison some in order to
test them.

Revelation 2:13: Antipas, God's faithful witness, put to
death.

Revelation 20:7: Satan released from prison for a short
time.

Appendix Three

Ministry Resources

This appendix gives suggestions for resources for jail and
prison ministry including Bible studies, tracts, Bibles, and videos. All
literature must be cleared by prison officials before distribution and some
institutions may require approval before showing videos. Most of this
list are United States based organizations. If you are preparing this
manual for use in another country, you may want to remove this section and
substitute local resource lists.

These are all prison-related videos. Contact your local
Christian bookstore for ordering information:

Tex Watson: Testimony of former inmate.

The Hiding Place: The story of Corrie Ten Boone,
incarcerated during World War II.

Born Again: The story of Chuck Colson, former U.S.
government official who was incarcerated and now heads an international prison
outreach.

JAIL AND PRISON MINISTRY VIDEOS:

A six part training series for jail and prison ministries is
available through the Atlanta Chaplaincy Training School, P.O. Box 98368,
Atlanta, GA 30359.

Volunteers in Corrections, a training video available
through the Industrial and Institutional Chaplaincy, 1445 Boonville Ave.,
Springfield, MO 65802.

Note: Coalition of Prison Evangelists (COPE) is a
cooperative organization of many prison ministries across America that help
promote training, materials and coordination of ministry. The address for this
organization is: COPE, 2220 Regal Parkway, Euless, Texas 76040.

BIBLE STUDIES:

In giving Bible studies to prisoners, be sensitive to the
fact that many inmates come from the lower social-economic level and may not be
highly educated. For this reason, you should select materials that are
simple, easy to read, with good-sized print.

There are many tremendous Bible study resources on the
Internet free of charge. Enter a search using the words Christian
resources or Bible studies. The following full-length Bible studies are
produced by Harvestime International Network, publishers of this manual on jail
and prison ministries. They are available on the Internet free of charge
at: http://www.harvestime.org

· Strategies
For Spiritual Harvest

· Foundations
Of Faith

· Kingdom
Living

· Spiritual
Strategies (Warfare)

· Ministry
Of The Holy Spirit

· Knowing
God's Voice

· Creative
Bible Study Methods

· Basic
Bible Survey: Old Testament

· Basic
Bible Survey: New Testament

· Developing
A Biblical World View

· Teaching
Tactics

· Methodology
Of Multiplication

· Power
Principles

· Biblical
Management Principles

· Principles
of Environmental Analysis

· Management
by Objectives

· Mobilization
Methodologies

· Leaven-like
Evangelism

· Women, A
Biblical Profile

· Battle For
The Body

· Intercessory
Prayer

ANSWERS TO SELF-TESTS

CHAPTER ONE:

1. I was in prison, and you came to me. (Matthew
25:36)

2. The main reference for the scriptural mandate for prison
ministry is Matthew 25:31-40.

2. We should follow the example Christ set by
ministering to prisoners.

3. Prisons meet the criteria of any mission field:
Lost people and a need for laborers.

4. God is not willing that any should perish

5. Chaplains cannot minister to more than a small
percentage of inmates in their care.

6. Many jails and prisons have no professional
chaplains and no religious services.

7. For every person incarcerated, there are three to
five other people affected.

8. False religions and cults are reaching out to
prisoners. We must get there first with the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

5. The spiritual goals of jail and prison ministry include
the following:

· To share
the unconditional love of God.

· To present
the Gospel of Jesus Christ in such a way that inmates will embrace it and
receive Christ as Savior.

· To
disciple new believers in the Word and teach them how to study the Bible.

· To
demonstrate the power of prayer and teach them to pray.

· To lead
inmates to experience the life-changing power of God that will free them from
guilt, shame, negative emotions, and addictions.

· To
minister to inmates' families.

6. The social goals of jail and prison ministry include the
following:

· To help
the inmate function more positively within the prison environment.

· To provide
a link between the community and persons confined in correctional institutions

· To prepare
residents for re-entry into society (physically, mentally, morally and
spiritually).

· To assist
inmates families in practical ways.

· To provide
post-prison assistance in practical ways.

7. The Gospel offers inmates:

· Forgiveness
from sin.

· A chance
to say "I'm sorry."

· Release
from guilt and shame.

· Acceptance.

· New values
and perspectives.

· Strategies
for coping with difficult situations and negative emotions

· Basics for
true honest relationships.

· Life
abundant through Jesus Christ.

· A new
purpose for living.

· Eternal
life.

CHAPTER TWO:

1. Be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in
love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)

2. Check your summary against the list of spiritual
qualifications for a prison ministry volunteer discussed in this chapter.

3. Four areas of preparation vital to effective prison
ministry are:

1. Prepare in prayer.

2. Prepare in the Word.

3. Prepare in your specific anointing.

4. Prepare for the specific institution.

CHAPTER THREE:

1. But this is a people robbed and plundered; all of them are
snared in holes, and they are hidden in prison houses; they are for prey, and
no one delivers; for plunder, and no one says, "Restore!"
(Isaiah 42:22)

2. Compare your summary to the steps for starting a prison
ministry discussed in this chapter.

3. The various ministries which you might provide in an
institution include:

· Conducting
church services.

· Substituting
for the chaplain.

· Providing
special musical or dramatic programs.

· Conducting
Bible studies.

· Teaching
classes.

· Conducting
a Christian group for those with addictions.

· Distributing
literature and Bibles.

· Hosting a
Christian film night.

· Providing
individualized services. . .

· Providing
Bible correspondence courses.

· Matching
inmates with Christian visitors.

· Matching
inmates with Christians to write to them.

· Providing
referral information for families.

· Referring
inmates to post-prison release programs.

4. Some ways to recruit volunteers include:

· Put a
notice in church bulletins.

· Make
announcement in church services.

· Recruit at
small group meetings.

· Prepare
posters and place them in strategic locations in the church.

· Plan a
"Prison Ministry Day."

5. Compare your summary of training volunteers to the
discussion in this chapter.

CHAPTER FOUR:

1. These things I have written to you who believe in the
name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that
you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. (1 John 5:13)

2. Two important things to do when you want to start
corresponding with an inmate are:

· Contact
the proper authorities at the institution.

· Obtain a
list of the rules for corresponding with inmates at that specific prison.

3. Compare your summary to the guidelines for corresponding
with inmates discussed in this chapter.

CHAPTER FIVE:

1. Remember the prisoners as if chained with them--those who
are mistreated--since you yourselves are in the body also. (Hebrews 13:3)

2. Personal visitation is an important ministry because:

· Every soul
is valuable to God.

· Many inmates
will not attend religious services.

· Many
inmates have never experienced true, Godly, unconditional friendship.

· It is
easier to open up in a personal rather than group setting.

· You become
a bridge back into society for the inmate.

· You will
not only be a blessing, but you will be blessed by a true friendship with an
inmate.

3. You can get involved in one-on-one visitation with
inmates by the following ways:

· Inquire
about the visitation program at the jail or prison where you want to volunteer.

· If the
institution does not have an organized program for matching inmates and
visitors, ask the chaplain or administrator to match you with an inmate.

· People who
are ministering inside the prison on a group basis in religious programs are
also a good source.

· If
possible, exchange a few letters with the inmate prior to your first visit.

4. Compare your summary to the guidelines given in this
chapter for visiting individually with an inmate.

CHAPTER SIX:

1. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with
compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having
no shepherd. (Matthew 9:36)

2. Some types of group meetings that can be conducted in
jails and prisons include:

3. Compare your summary for each area to the guidelines given
in this chapter.

CHAPTER SEVEN:

1. “And in you all the families of the earth shall be
blessed." (Genesis 12:3)

2. An inmate's family is often in crisis because when a
family member is arrested it creates great anxiety, fear, and
uncertainty. The family is split apart. Children face shame and
loss when a parent is in prison.

3. You can minister to inmate's families through the
following ways:

· Transportation
and hospitality

· Information

· Social
services

· Employment

· Housing,
food, clothing, and finances

· Counseling

· Presents
on special occasions

· A church
home

4. Two important things you must do before contacting an
inmate's family are:

1. Check with the chaplain or administration at the jail or
prison where you are ministering.

2. Obtain written permission from the inmate so the family
and institution knows you have his/her approval.

5. Compare your summary to the guidelines given in this
chapter for ministering to inmate's families.

CHAPTER EIGHT:

1. Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee;
according to the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are appointed
to die. (Psalms 79:11)

2. Compare your summary to the suggestions given in this
chapter on how to start a death row ministry.

3. Compare your discussion to the guidelines given in this
chapter for ministering to death row inmates.

4. You can help a death row inmate face death in the
following ways:

· Is there
someone they need to forgive? Guide them in the process.

· Are there
those to whom he needs to apologize and seek forgiveness victims, their
families, his own family or friends?

· If they
have young children, encourage them to write a special letter to the child to
be given to them when they are older.

· Do they
have any practical business matters that need to be concluded?

· Discuss
death openly, and the fact that as a believer, there is nothing to fear.

· Help them
focus on eternity and the tremendous things that await in Heaven.

· If they
ask you to be present at their death to provide spiritual support, do so if the
prison permits it.

CHAPTER NINE:

1. To open blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the
prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. (Isaiah 42:7)

2. Some of common needs of ex-offenders are:

· He needs
to be accepted in a local church that is nurturing and supportive so he can
develop spiritually.

· He
needs housing, food, and clothing.

· He needs
vocational training and/or a job.

· He may
need financial counseling.

· Family
counseling is important if he is trying to reunite his family.

· He may
need additional personal counseling for addictions like drugs and alcohol.

· If he has
been incarcerated for a long time, he may need assistance with even simple
decisions.

· He needs a
strong support network of friends who will love and accept him, pray for and
with him, and help him work through problems.

3. Post-prison ministries include:

· A
Christian "half way house"

· The local
rescue mission

· Government
or privately operated programs

· Church based
programs

· Christian
colleges and Bible schools

4. The steps for starting a post-prison ministry are:

Step One: Pray

Step Two: Consult your spiritual leader

Step Three: Do an analysis

Step Four: Visit a similar ministry

Step Five: Determine organizational issues

· Funding

· Facilities

· Staffing

5. The three questions that should determine your role in
post-prison ministry are:

1. What is permitted by the institution in which you
minister?

2. Where are you most effective?

3. What are your time and energy limitations?

CHAPTER TEN:

1. The spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord
hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind
up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of
the prison to them that are bound. (Isaiah 61:1)

2. The common security levels are maximum, medium, minimum.

3. Prison inmates have been tried and convicted. Jail is
usually the entry point for all prisoners. Many jail inmates haven't been
convicted of anything yet. Prison population is relatively stable. Jail
population is very transient. Some prisons have at least a minimum of
facilities and programs for counseling and rehabilitation, but most jails have
few or none. Prisons usually have better facilities for group meetings such as
church services and group Bible studies. The physical, emotional, and psychological
conditions of jail inmates are different from and less favorable than those in
prisons.

4. Some other facilities of confinement discussed in this
chapter are:

· Work
release centers

· Halfway
house

· Road camp,
fire camp, forestry camp, or work farm

· Detention,
juvenile hall, or reformatory

5. Compare your summary to the discussion on inmate typology
in this chapter.

CHAPTER ELEVEN:

1. Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities.
For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are
appointed by God. (Romans 13:1)

2. Compare your answer to the discussion on appropriate
dress codes in this chapter.

3. Compare your summary of safety codes to the discussion in
this chapter.

4. Compare your summary to the guidelines given in this
chapter for surviving a hostage incident.

5. Be sure to obtain a list of the dress and safety codes
for the institution in which you are visiting or ministering. Insert
these in the final section (Chapter Thirteen) of this manual which is designed
for material unique to your specific institution.

CHAPTER TWELVE:

1. In humility correcting those who are in opposition, if
God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and
that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having
been taken captive by him to do his will. (2 Timothy 2:25-26)

2. The first rule for properly relating with inmates is
learn and follow the rules.

3. Compare your summary to the guidelines for relating to
inmates given in this chapter.

4. A setup is a situation where you are forced into
compromising your own beliefs, standards, or institutional rules. You are
forced or tricked into a compromising situation, and then taken advantage of by
an inmate to receive favors or contraband like drugs, alcohol, etc.

5. A setup usually proceeds as follows:

Observation: Inmates first observe your ability
or inability to function under stress, your level of tolerance, whether or not
you adhere to rules, and how effectively you will take command in a difficult
situation.

Testing: Before any conclusions can be drawn, inmates
test their assumptions about you by such things as unauthorized requests for
supplies and materials, asking for favors, circumventing rules, preying on
sympathy, or attempting to engage you in intimate conversations. If
you yield in these "minor areas," then you are a prime candidate for
a setup.

The Setup: If you compromise minor rules or engage in
intimate or inappropriate behavior, then an inmate sets you up by using this as
a lever to get what they actually wanted all along.